World Music CD Reviews Europe

Kristi Stassinopoulou, from the musically rich country of Greece, exhibits commendable courage in creating a homeland sound without worrying about being “authentic.” Greece has turned out superstars such as George Dalaras and Eleftheria Arvanitaki, who defined eras sonically. Kristi Stassinopoulou may have the potential to do the same; The Secrets Of The Rocks is a flawed gem blending unique punkish vocal talents with a quirky mix of rock, global beat and rembetica. The standout “Whirlpools” is a dead-on rock song with Cretian lyra samples sprinkled in. Tracks like “Patithraki” exhibit Stassinopoulou’s versatile voice as she sings in the style of rembetica. Enya-like moments and a slight overuse of electronica may alienate the listener. However, there are plenty of anthems to grab a hold of on this strange-but-beautiful CD.